Manitoba Crafts Museum and Library, Winnipeg

The Manitoba Crafts Museum and Library (MCML), located in Winnipeg, is Canada’s only museum dedicated solely to craft. Rooted in the 1930s activities of the Crafts Guild of Manitoba-a local branch of the Canadian Handicrafts Guild founded in 1928-the museum has grown into a dynamic space devoted to preserving the handmade, celebrating Manitoba’s craft heritage, and inspiring both artists and learners.

Officially established in 1933 with the creation of a Permanent Collection and Library, the MCML has always relied on the dedication of volunteers. Over the decades, they’ve curated exhibitions, delivered educational programming, and ensured the preservation of the collection in line with professional museum standards.

Today, the Museum Collection includes more than 10,000 artifacts and archival materials representing a wide range of techniques and traditions-such as bobbin lace, embroidery, ceramics, knitting, quilting, weaving, rug hooking, and woodworking. In addition to handcrafted objects, the collection also includes textual archives, photographs, and slides. Much of this is cataloged in-house, with parts accessible through Artefacts Canada.

The Gladys Chown Memorial Library, established in the 1930s and named in 1948, is a key part of MCML. It holds over 3,500 books, 1,500 magazines, vintage patterns, and archival materials-some dating back to the late 19th century. Open to the public for research and lending to members, its unique holdings are cataloged in-house and available during open hours.

Together, the museum and library continue to champion the value of the handmade-preserving tradition, supporting innovation, and fostering a deep appreciation for craft in all its forms.